What Causes Blocked Drains?

Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Homes and Businesses

Blocked Drain Causing Problems? Our Drainage Experts Can Help: 0800 587 7553

Blocked drains are one of the most common drainage problems affecting homes, businesses, and commercial properties across London and the South East. A blocked drain can start as a small restriction within your pipework, but over time it can lead to slow drainage, unpleasant smells, overflowing water, flooding, and potential damage to your property.

If you are experiencing these issues, Jet and Drain provides professional drain unblocking services to quickly identify and clear blockages, helping restore normal drainage flow. At Jet and Drain, we regularly attend blocked drain problems caused by everything from grease build-up and foreign objects to tree roots and damaged pipes. Understanding the causes of blocked drains can help prevent expensive repairs and keep your drainage system working correctly.

Fat, Grease and Cooking Oil Build-Up

One of the most common causes of blocked drains is fat, oil and grease being poured down sinks. Although these substances may appear liquid when warm, they can cool and stick to the inside of drainage pipes. Over time, layers of grease collect and restrict the flow of wastewater, eventually causing a blockage. This is especially common in restaurants, commercial kitchens and busy food establishments where large volumes of waste are produced. Jet and Drain provides professional fat and grease removal services using specialist equipment, including high-pressure water jetting, to clear stubborn build-ups and restore drainage flow.

Hair, Soap and Bathroom Waste

Bathroom drains can become blocked due to a build-up of hair, soap residue and other materials. Hair can become trapped inside pipes and collect other debris, gradually creating a blockage that prevents water from draining away properly. Using drain covers and regular maintenance can help reduce the risk of bathroom blockages.

Food Waste and Incorrect Disposal

Kitchen sinks are designed to remove wastewater, not large amounts of food waste.
Items such as:

can collect inside drainage pipes and cause restrictions. Likewise, flushing unsuitable items down toilets, including wipes, sanitary products and other waste, can lead to serious blockages.

Tree Roots Entering Drain Pipes

Tree root ingress is a common cause of recurring drain blockages, especially where underground drainage pipes are located near trees and bushes. Roots naturally search for water and can enter small cracks, joints or damaged sections of pipework. Once inside, they continue growing and can cause significant restrictions or damage. Jet and Drain uses specialist root removal equipment to clear root intrusion and help restore normal drainage flow.

Damaged or Collapsed Drain Pipes

Not every blocked drain is caused by a build-up of waste. Older drainage systems can suffer from:

These problems can cause repeated blockages and may require a professional CCTV drain survey to identify the exact cause.

Poor Drain Maintenance

Many drainage problems can be prevented with regular maintenance. Commercial and industrial properties, in particular, can experience repeated blockages due to the amount of wastewater passing through their drainage systems. Jet and Drain provides preventative drain maintenance services to help identify potential problems before they become costly emergencies.

Signs You May Have a Blocked Drain

Common warning signs include:

If you notice these signs, dealing with the issue quickly can help prevent further damage.

How Jet and Drain Can Help

Blocked drains can be inconvenient, unpleasant and disruptive. At Jet and Drain, our experienced drainage engineers provide fast and reliable drainage solutions across London and the South East. Using advanced equipment including high-pressure water jetting, electro-mechanical cleaning equipment and CCTV drain inspection systems, we can identify and clear many types of drainage problems.
We offer:

For blocked drains, drainage advice or professional assistance, contact Jet and Drain today on 0800 587 7553.